Concord C1 Biretrograde Watch
The C1 Biretrograde, the latest release from watchmaker Concord, is a contemporary timepiece that seamlessly combines precise engineering and cutting edge design in a double retrograde package. The watch exudes an industrial aesthetic with a robust case and exposed fasteners. Only 200 examples will be produced; 50 platinum versions and 150 rose-gold versions. A layered dial reveals the inner workings of the watch while keeping track of date, day, and time on a series of sapphire-crystal disks. The C1 is finished with a vulcanized rubber trim ring and strap, completing an elegant unification of function and form.
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Petrovic Residence by Bojan Simic Architecture
A two story glass atrium flanked by symmetrical living spaces serves as a wholly modern addition to a traditional Victorian residence in St. Kilda, Victoria. Designed by Australian firm Bojan Simic Architecture, the addition references Victorian design principles, but interprets them through a modern language. Its symmetry, for example, pays homage to the strictly symmetrical plans implemented in Victorian homes. On their website, the firm describes the soaring atrium as a “time passage symbolically linking the early 20th century with the early 21st century.” Inside, a curvilinear vaulted roof and modern furnishings eschew any historical references. The spaces on either side of the atrium open fully onto a sprawling deck via glass panels that slide out of the way.
Creating Compass Pointe: An Interview with Kelly Deck
Sean Anderson of Progressive Design Concept and Kelly Deck of Kelly Deck Design and host of HGTV’s “Take it Outside,” collaborated on the creation of The Compass Pointe House, a stunning modern abode in Whistler, Canada. The home combines modern and rustic elements to complement and capture the fluidity of the house’s natural environment. Anderson, of Progressive Concept Design, created the home’s layout and overall design, while Deck selected the interior and exterior finishes.
We recently caught up with Kelly Deck to ask her a few questions about herself and her involvement in the recently completed Compass Pointe House project.
Continue on to read the rest of the interview and to view more images of the stunning Compass Pointe home after the jump.
Villa Drusch by Claude Parent
French architect Claude Parent, whose work lies equally in written theory and physical structures, designed Villa Drusch, a home which embodies his “theory of oblique architecture.” Built in Versailles in 1963, the home is a literal embodiment of his theory. Constructed primarily of concrete, Villa Drusch appears to be a home turned on its side, a bold architectural move which still evokes interest today. Living spaces are encased in aluminum-framed glass, which naturally lights the open interior. A staircase inside follows the slope of the exterior structure, leading to a second level where the ceiling, contrary to the rectilinear exterior, curves dramatically inward. Most surfaces inside are also cast from concrete.
Architectural Illustrations by Nathan Freise
First exhibited in July 2008 at New York’s School of Visual Arts, these illustrations by Nathan Freise depict futuristic architectural scenarios with complex layers of images produced with a variety of mediums. Freise combined ink, graphite, and marker with photography and computer graphics to create utopian images which he says, “question our current conditions of suburban sprawl and urban master-planning.” The illustrations portray iconic urban infrastructure contrasted against distinctly modern architectural interventions, creating images that manage to feel both vintage and futuristic.
Freise is widely recognized for his work alongside his brother, with whom he produces short films, images, and narratives in the same vein as his illustrations. Their most known work is their short film “The Machine Stops,” based on the 1909 short story by E.M. Forster of the same title.
iHome x Bongiovi Acoustics – Speaker System for iPhone/iPod
The iP1 Studio iPod/iPhone audio system is the latest effort from iHome in the hotly contested and overcrowded iPod accessory market. Although iHome already offers myriad options for the savvy iPod owner, they hope the iP1 will stand out from the crowd. In cooperation with Bongiovi Acoustics, iHome developed a sleek audio system which they claim is unrivaled in sound quality. The system is anchored by a smoked acrylic panel, through which a pair of 4 inch drivers and 1 inch tweeters protrude. In terms of aesthetics, the iP1 sets itself apart from the sea of other audio systems. It uses a 100-Watt amplifier paired with a sophisticated digital signal processing system to elevate the sound quality of an iPod or iPhone. The iP1 is priced at $249 and is available at Amazon.
Swedish Mill House by Wingardhs
In Malma, Sweden, the Mill House was designed and constructed as a modest vacation getaway where its inhabitants can indulge in the Swedish traditions of bathing and the sauna. Designed by architecture firm Wingardhs, the space is dominated by the sauna and requisite dressing/undressing areas. Water is a recurring theme throughout, with ponds bordering all sides of the home, and a pool for post-sauna bathing at the rear. Traditional Japanese design permeates both the interior and exterior of the home, with sliding glass doors, wood clad walls, and a translucent gable at one end of the bedroom. Dining and sleeping functions take a backseat in this vacation abode, which promises to provide its owners with as much tranquility as they desire.
Hadid, Complete Works 1979–2009
Taschen’s ‘complete works’ series, a collection of books detailing the projects of world renowned architects, gains another volume, this time featuring the work of Zaha Hadid. Hadid, a Pritzker Prize recipient, has received commissions throughout the world, and her work from 1979-2009 is documented by regular ‘complete works’ contributor Philip Jodidio. The sizeable book includes countless pictures of Hadid’s work, chronicling her gradual ascent to notoriety.
Catskill Mountain House by Audrey Matlock
Simple rectangular forms and fluidity between interior and exterior spaces characterize the Catskill Mountain House by Audrey Matlock. Prominent exterior features include white framework which extends past the home, tying the stepped exterior terrace to the glass-walled body of the house. A large cast concrete wall anchors the north side of the home and shelters the terrace, pool, and outdoor fireplace from a rocky slope on the opposite side. Within the home, uses transition from public spaces near the pool to increasingly private spaces at the other. Regardless of use, full height glazing allows for panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains from most rooms. The interior employs a mostly monochromatic palette of black, white, and gray. Heated and polished concrete floors underlie run the length of the home, complementing slate accent walls and ebony stained ash cabinetry.
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The Carla Ridge Residence
After an extensive two year renovation, the Carla Ridge Residence in Beverly Hills has been listed for sale through the Westside Estate Agency. At $9.9 million, the five bedroom, six bath home has been upgraded thoroughly with the requisite palette of high end materials. Upon initial approach, the mid-century modern roots of the pavilion style home remain apparent. A characteristic low, flat roof and floor to ceiling windows allow access to the expansive patio and pool at the rear, while providing residents with an awe-inspiring view of the city below. The substantial use of glass also lends a sense of transparency to the home, as demonstrated by the clear sightlines from the front walkway straight through to the backyard. A subdued interior design scheme of black, white, and gray provides a minimalist backdrop for future inhabitants.
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